Making the case for equipment upgrades

WASHINGTON — A new study shows that older vacuums can contribute to indoor air pollution by releasing into the air bacteria and dust that can spread infections and trigger allergies, according to a press release.

According to the release, previous studies showed that vacuum cleaners can increase levels of very small dust particles and bacteria in indoor spaces, where people spend about 90 percent of their time.

The study looked at the effects that age, brand and other factors had on the amount of small particles and bacteria released into air, the release noted.

The study indicated that even vacuums with so-called high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, in some cases, released only slightly lower levels of dust and bacteria; however, the newer vacuum cleaners were generally less polluting than older or less expensive models, the release added.